By definition, unaccompanied alien children (UAC):
- Have no lawful immigration status in the United States
- Are under 18 years of age
- Have no parent or legal guardian in the United States or no parent or legal guardian in the United States is available to provide care and physical custody
Following apprehension by a federal agency, usually the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), unaccompanied alien children are transferred to the care and custody of ORR while awaiting immigration proceedings.
ORR’s Unaccompanied Alien Children (UAC) Bureau promptly places unaccompanied alien children in the least restrictive setting that is in the best interests of the child, taking into consideration danger to self, danger to the community, and risk of flight. ORR looks at each child’s unique situation and incorporates child welfare principles when making placement, clinical, case management, and release decisions.
The age of children, their separation from parents and relatives, and the hazardous journey they take make them especially vulnerable to human trafficking, exploitation, and abuse.
The majority of unaccompanied alien children are cared for through a network of ORR-funded care provider facilities which must comply with ORR policies and procedures and offer all required services.
The care provider network offers a continuum of care for children in a variety of settings including shelter/group home, transitional foster care, long-term foster care, therapeutic group home, residential treatment center, and heightened supervision facility.
Learn more about the UAC Bureau’s history, services, and responsibilities.